How to understand your will

15th September 2025

Image: Simon Lofthouse Corbett Le Quesne

How to understand your will

Wills are written in precise legal language, which can feel unfamiliar. We help clients understand exactly what each part means.

Key elements of a will

• Executors – the people you appoint to administer your estate
• Guardians – who you appoint to care for your children if needed
• Specific gifts – items or sums of money left to particular people or charities
• Residue – everything left after gifts, debts and expenses are dealt with
• Substitution clauses – who inherits if your first choice beneficiary has died
• Trusts – arrangements that can hold property for children, dependants or other beneficiaries
• Attestation clause – the formal statement showing the will has been validly signed and witnessed

Understanding your will gives peace of mind and allows you to spot if updates are needed. We are happy to review existing wills with you and explain each clause in plain language.

When does your will need updating?

A will should be reviewed regularly. In Jersey, certain life events can automatically revoke or change its effect, while others simply mean your will may no longer reflect your wishes.

Times to review your will

• Marriage or civil partnership – in the UK this normally revokes a previous will unless it was made in contemplation of marriage/partnership, however this does not apply in Jersey and so you should seek legal advice before tying the knot. 
• Separation or divorce – in Jersey, divorce does not revoke a will, but gifts to an ex-spouse may lapse under Article 16 of the Wills and Successions Law
• New children or grandchildren – to include guardianship or new beneficiaries
• Property changes – buying or selling Jersey real estate, or acquiring overseas assets
• Financial changes – business sales, new investments, or inheritance
• Time passing – even without life events, it is wise to review your will every 3–5 years

We review existing wills for local and international clients and advise if changes are needed. Updating can often be done by a simple codicil or, if more significant, by drafting a new will.